The former Latics player was chairman Dave Whelan's first choice to replace Steve Bruce when he left for Sunderland and Martinez's arrival has been welcomed by fans, who remember him fondly as one of the club's 'Three Amigos'.

Martinez turned Swansea City into a good Championship side but he is lacking in top-flight experience and the Spaniard knows he and his players have to embrace increased expectations from supporters.

"I think that passion around the club will be a great advantage for us," he said.

"We all know how tough the job is going to be, especially over the next five or six months, as when a manager leaves a club there is always change and a good turnover in players.

"The next few months are going to be critical, but we need to rely on hard work and everyone pushing in the same direction, including the fans.

"If we can pull together as a club, we will all enjoy our football and move forward. That is what we have to do."